Vents Make Sense, from Appliance Design (May 2007)
Jason Zambotti, Applications Engineer
W. L. Gore & Associates Inc.
Consumers expect appliances and portable devices to withstand normal wear and tear of an active household. At the same time, the electronic components used in consumer products are becoming much more sophisticated and sensitive. It is essential to protect the electronics from external contaminants such as dust, dirt, liquids, and detergents. At the same time, battery gases that build up inside appliances must be vented so as not to damage the electronics. Therefore, the design engineer must develop a product housing that allows gases to be vented, equalizes pressure, and prevents corrosion and damage to the internal electronics.